How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail
   1888 IN-63
   Hillsdale, IN 47854
   Phone: (765) 492-3838

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 AM
   • Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail?

   Visiting hours at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (765) 492-3838 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Vermillion County Sheriff & Jail, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Through a multifaceted approach to personal development, the comprehensive programming structure at Vermillion County Jail encompasses diverse pathways designed to address the varied needs and aspirations of individuals in custody. This holistic framework recognizes that meaningful change often emerges through multiple interconnected opportunities, creating an environment where participants can engage with different aspects of personal growth simultaneously. The facility’s commitment to comprehensive programming reflects an understanding that successful reintegration requires addressing educational deficits, developing practical skills, and fostering personal resilience through various supportive interventions.

Educational advancement opportunities typically form a cornerstone of the programming structure, with basic literacy and GED preparation courses often serving individuals who may have previously encountered barriers to academic achievement. ESL (English as Second Language) instruction may be available to support non-native speakers in developing essential communication skills that prove invaluable for future employment and community integration. Additionally, vocational training opportunities often provide hands-on experience in practical trades and skills, allowing participants to develop marketable competencies that can translate directly into post-release employment opportunities and long-term career stability.

The facility’s support services framework typically encompasses faith-based programs that offer spiritual guidance and community connection for those seeking such resources. Conflict resolution opportunities may provide individuals with essential interpersonal skills, teaching effective communication strategies and problem-solving techniques that prove beneficial both within the facility environment and in future personal relationships. These therapeutic and support-oriented offerings often complement the educational and vocational components, creating a comprehensive network of resources designed to address the multidimensional aspects of personal development and successful community reintegration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The steady rhythm of scheduled counts punctuates each day, creating a framework that currently guides the movement and activities of individuals housed within the facility. Daily routines typically begin in the early morning hours with wake-up calls, followed by cell inspections and the established official count of the day. Individuals generally have time for personal hygiene and preparation before breakfast service begins, with meals delivered to housing units or served in designated dining areas depending on the facility’s current operational procedures. The structured schedule continues throughout the day with additional counts, recreation periods, and various programming opportunities that offer individuals ways to maintain physical fitness and engage in constructive activities.

Living accommodations within the facility typically consist of shared cells or dormitory-style housing units, where individuals may be housed with one or more cellmates based on classification levels and available space. Personal belongings are generally limited to essential items and approved commissary purchases, with storage space provided within each housing area. While the environment maintains necessary security protocols, individuals usually have access to basic amenities including bedding, personal hygiene items, and writing materials. Additionally, the facility often provides television programming and reading materials in common areas, allowing for some recreational activities during designated free time periods.

Structured programming schedules may include educational opportunities, religious services, and counseling sessions that help individuals maintain connections to support systems and work toward personal goals. Visitation policies typically allow for regular contact with family members and approved visitors, either through in-person visits or video conferencing systems, depending on current facility protocols and security considerations. Work assignments within the facility often include kitchen duties, cleaning responsibilities, and maintenance tasks that provide individuals with daily structure while contributing to facility operations. Communication with the outside world continues through monitored phone calls and written correspondence, helping individuals maintain important relationships and prepare for their eventual return to the community.